How it Happened
Needing a win to put back-to-back road losses behind them, the Knicks took care of business at home against the Philadelphia, 91-83.
New York held the winless Sixers to 36 percent shooting in the first half, but weren't able to pull away until after the break. But in the third quarter, led by Iman Shumpert's energy on both ends of the floor, they opened up a 17-point cushion that they'd never relinquish. Shumpert scored six points and had two of his four steals in the third, as well as the play of the night; his crossover dribble and no-look pass to Quincy Acy for a thunderous jam electrified the crowd and provided a jolt to his teammates.
Amar'e Stoudemire was rested and delivered his first double-double of the season, with 16 points and 11 rebounds to help hold off Philadelphia's second-half comeback efforts.
Knick of the Night
Carmelo Anthony led all scorers with 25 points in 38 minutes. He helped set the tone early, with 14 points on 6 of 9 shooting in the first half and nine more points int he fourth quarter to help seal the win.
Game Notes
Jose Calderon made his Knicks regular season debut after missing the first 13 games with a calf injury. He played 21 minutes, with three points and three assists in the win.
Next Up
After a film session tomorrow, the Knicks hit the road for a three-game trip that will take them to Houston (Monday), Dallas (Wednesday) and Oklahoma City (Friday) before returning home.